Turkey Burgers

Let’s be honest—classic beef burgers are a staple, but sometimes you’re craving something a little lighter, a little leaner, yet still incredibly satisfying. That’s exactly why these turkey burgers were born. I wanted something packed with flavor but without the heaviness that sometimes follows a traditional burger.

This turkey burger recipe is not just a healthier alternative; it’s also tender, juicy, and anything but bland. Whether you’re watching your red meat intake or just love experimenting in the kitchen, this is the kind of meal that keeps everyone at the table happy.

Stick around—you’re about to discover how a simple turkey patty can turn into your new favorite burger night tradition.

Why I Love This Recipe

Let’s face it: turkey burgers often get a bad rap for being dry or flavorless. But that changes right here.

This recipe is all about transforming lean ground turkey into something deeply savory, juicy, and satisfying. What makes this turkey burger different is the intentional layering of flavor—onion, garlic, fresh herbs, and a touch of Dijon mustard all work together to create a patty that doesn’t need to hide behind condiments. The texture is soft but holds up well on the grill or stovetop, making it easy to cook without falling apart.

I’ve made this recipe countless times for weeknight dinners, outdoor barbecues, and even meal prep lunches. It’s lean but indulgent, healthy but never boring. Plus, you can customize it endlessly—whether you’re going low-carb with lettuce wraps or loading it up with cheese and toppings.

If you’ve ever been disappointed by a dry turkey burger, this is the one that will change your mind.

Ingredients for Turkey Burgers

To build flavor from the inside out, the ingredients in this recipe are all carefully chosen—and they make all the difference.

Here’s what you’ll need to craft juicy, flavorful turkey burgers:

• Ground turkey – Opt for 93% lean for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Super lean turkey (like 99%) tends to dry out quickly.
• Onion – Grated finely to blend into the meat and keep it moist. It also adds a mild sweetness.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds depth and aroma.
• Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture without making it dense.
• Egg – Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
• Dijon mustard – Brings tang and brightness, elevating the flavor of the meat.
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and richness to the mix.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to balance everything out.
• Chopped fresh parsley – Gives the burgers a fresh finish.
• Olive oil – For cooking the patties evenly and giving them a golden crust.

It’s the small touches here—the mustard, the grated onion, the parsley—that give these turkey burgers that “made-from-scratch” taste. Don’t be tempted to skip these—they’re what set this burger apart.

How Much Time Will You Need

The beauty of this turkey burger recipe is how quick and approachable it is.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: About 25–30 minutes

You can easily prep the patties in advance, store them in the fridge, and have dinner sizzling in under half an hour. It’s weeknight gold, truly.

How to Make This Turkey Burger

Here’s your step-by-step guide to building the best turkey burgers right at home.

Step – 1: Prepare your ingredients
Finely grate one small onion and mince a couple of garlic cloves. You want everything to be finely chopped or grated so it blends seamlessly into the ground turkey. Chop up a few tablespoons of fresh parsley and measure out your breadcrumbs, mustard, and Worcestershire.

Step – 2: Make the turkey mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Use your hands or a large spoon to gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your burgers will be tough.

Step – 3: Shape your patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form into patties. Aim for about ½-inch thickness, pressing a small indent in the center of each patty—this helps them cook evenly and prevents bulging.

Step – 4: Preheat your cooking surface
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Alternatively, you can preheat your grill and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step – 5: Cook the patties
Place the patties on the skillet or grill. Cook for about 5–6 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook another 5–6 minutes on the second side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid pressing down on the patties—that will squeeze out the juices.

Step – 6: Rest and serve
Let the burgers rest for a couple of minutes before assembling. This helps retain moisture. Add your favorite bun, cheese, and toppings.

Once you’ve made these, they’ll quickly become your go-to for everything from meal prep to backyard cookouts.

Substitutions

One of the best things about turkey burgers is how adaptable they are.

Out of breadcrumbs?
Try using oat flour, panko, or crushed crackers. Almond flour is a good low-carb option that still helps with binding.

No Dijon mustard?
You can sub it with spicy brown mustard or a touch of yellow mustard. It’ll still give a tangy kick, though Dijon adds a bit more complexity.

Want to skip the egg?
Use a tablespoon of mayonnaise instead—it adds richness and acts as a binder too.

No fresh parsley?
Use dried parsley or swap in cilantro or basil for a different flavor twist.

These swaps don’t just “make do”—they can actually bring new dimension and character to your turkey burger depending on your pantry or taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Burgers

Pair your turkey burgers with sides that complement the lighter, leaner flavor profile. Here are three solid choices:

Sweet Potato Fries
Slightly sweet and crisped to perfection—these bring a balance of comfort food and healthy carbs.

Cucumber-Dill Salad
Refreshing, crunchy, and light, this side dish cuts through the richness of the burger and resets your palate with every bite.

Grilled Corn on the Cob
Seasoned with smoked paprika and lime, grilled corn adds a bright, juicy crunch that’s perfect for summer or BBQ nights.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A beautifully made turkey burger deserves an equally thoughtful presentation.

Whether you’re hosting a casual cookout or plating dinner for your family, there are a few simple tricks to elevate how these burgers look and feel on the plate.

Start by choosing a quality bun—brioche, whole wheat, or even pretzel buns make the dish feel a touch more gourmet. Toasting the buns lightly brings out their flavor and keeps them from getting soggy. Add your burger, then layer in toppings like crisp lettuce, ripe tomato slices, avocado, or a red onion ring for a pop of color.

Consider skewering the burger with a bamboo pick to keep everything neat and stacked. Serve it on a wooden board or a rustic plate with a small ramekin of sauce or aioli on the side for dipping. A fresh sprig of parsley or a few pickles on the side adds that extra finishing touch without extra effort.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Better

The secret to a great turkey burger lies in both the preparation and the cooking technique.

Here are a few tried-and-true tips to ensure your burger comes out juicy and flavorful every single time:

• Use 93% lean ground turkey. Super lean versions can dry out quickly. You need a bit of fat to lock in flavor and juiciness.
• Grate the onion instead of dicing. Grated onion not only blends better but also releases more moisture, which helps prevent dryness.
• Don’t overmix the meat. Mix gently and just until combined. Overworking the meat results in a dense, tough burger.
• Make a slight indentation in the center of the patty. This ensures even cooking and prevents the patty from puffing up in the middle.
• Let the patties rest after cooking. A quick 2-minute rest helps redistribute juices throughout the burger.
• Chill the patties for 10–15 minutes before cooking. This step helps them firm up and hold their shape better during cooking.

Even these small details can make a big difference in flavor and texture. Take the extra steps—they’re worth it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Turkey burgers are simple to make, but a few common missteps can compromise your final result. Avoid these:

• Skipping the binder: Without breadcrumbs or egg, your burgers might fall apart or become too dry. Always include at least one binder ingredient.
• Using ultra-lean turkey: While it seems like a healthy move, 99% lean turkey dries out too easily. Opt for 93% lean for a better texture.
• Overcooking: Since turkey must be fully cooked, people tend to overdo it. Use a thermometer and pull the patties at 165°F.
• Under-seasoning: Turkey is naturally mild, so it needs salt, aromatics, and herbs to truly shine. Don’t be afraid to season generously.
• Pressing down on the patties while cooking: This squeezes out all the juices, leaving your burger dry. Flip once and let it cook.

These small errors are easy to fix—and once you do, your turkey burger game will be solid.

How to Store It

Turkey burgers store surprisingly well, making them great for meal prep or saving leftovers.

To refrigerate:
Let the burgers cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days in the fridge. You can keep them whole or slice them up for salads or wraps.

To freeze uncooked patties:
Form the patties, separate each with parchment paper, and freeze in a sealed bag or container. They’ll keep well for 2–3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

To freeze cooked patties:
Wrap each patty in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. These can be reheated directly from frozen in a covered skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave.

Reheating tip:
Add a splash of water and cover the pan to gently steam the burger and prevent it from drying out.

FAQ

Can I bake turkey burgers instead of frying or grilling?
Yes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

How do I make turkey burgers without breadcrumbs?
You can substitute almond flour, oat flour, or even cooked quinoa. The goal is to help bind the ingredients and retain moisture.

What toppings go best with turkey burgers?
Avocado, caramelized onions, arugula, tomato, pickled red onions, spicy mayo, and feta cheese are fantastic topping options.

Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
Yes. You can prep the turkey mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This also gives the flavors time to develop.

Are turkey burgers healthier than beef burgers?
Typically, yes. Turkey burgers are lower in saturated fat and calories compared to regular beef burgers, especially when made with lean turkey meat.

Print